What is Cholera And How Can You Avoid It Whilst Travelling?

Cholera – What Travellers Need to Know

Cholera is a bacterial infection of the gut caused by Vibrio cholerae. It can cause severe, watery diarrhoea and dehydration — and if untreated, it can be life-threatening. The disease is most often linked to contaminated food or water in countries where sanitation is poor.

⚠️ Symptoms of Cholera:

• Sudden onset of profuse, watery diarrhoea (“rice-water stools”)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Rapid dehydration, weakness, and shock

🦠 How It Spreads:

• Drinking water contaminated with the bacteria

• Eating raw or undercooked seafood from contaminated water

• Consuming food handled with unwashed or contaminated hands

🌍 Where Is Cholera a Risk?

• Africa – Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique

• Asia – Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal

• Middle East – Yemen, Syria

• Caribbean & Central America – Haiti, Dominican Republic, parts of Central America

• After natural disasters – risk can increase due to water contamination

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself:

• Drink only bottled, boiled, or properly treated water

• Avoid ice unless made from safe water

• Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot

• Wash hands regularly with soap and safe water

• Get the oral cholera vaccine before travelling to high-risk regions

🩺 Travel Vaccinations in Cheshire & Tarporley:
Enigma Healthcare in Tarporley, Cheshire offers fast, expert-led cholera vaccinations for travellers heading to at-risk destinations. Our doctor-led team provides tailored travel health advice to keep you safe abroad.

👉 Book your cholera vaccine today before you travel — and reduce your risk of serious illness overseas.